30 pc couples split over unwashed dishes

Infidelity and drifting apart are still the most common reasons for a marriage breakdown, but domestic issues play a part in three out of 10 divorces.

The wife or husband having an affair causes 40 percent of divorces, followed by drifting apart (35 percent).

Household concerns and partners not doing their fair share of chores account for 30 percent, the Daily Express reported.

Whatever the main cause, the poll of 1,000 adults, for cleaning product firm Vileda, found 56 percent of couples cite day-to-day domestic issues as a “major factor” when splitting.

59 percent said that it was difficult staying in a relationship when one partner is not pulling their weight around the house.

Leaving things lying around topped the list of concerns most likely to lead to a row.

Others included neglecting the washing up and not putting dirty clothes in the laundry basket.

It can be the little rows over things like washing up that can help tip couples over the edge

The average couple argued about these kinds of issues three times a month for nine months before deciding to split. But for 17 percent the rows went on for two years.

Five out of six of those who have gone on to meet another partner said they were working harder to avoid making the same mistakes.

“Day-to-day domestic problems may seem trivial at first but, if it happens every single day, resentment can build and it can lead to much bigger issues,” Lindsey Taylor, brand manager for Vileda, said.

“There may be another major reason behind a break-up, such as money worries. But it can be the little rows over things like washing up that can help tip couples over the edge.

“Drawing up clear guidelines on household responsibilities and planning ahead could help couples avoid a dirty break-up in the future,” she added.